Stoller Solbakken believes the team must learn from its failure to hold onto its lead.

Norway defeated Denmark 3-2 at the Ullerwald Stadium in their opening UEFA Nations League match, then lost 1-2 at home to Portugal, followed by a 1-2 away defeat to Wales. On Sunday evening, Norway faced Portugal again, ultimately losing 1-2 in Porto. Christopher Ajer scored for Norway, but the team still couldn't avoid defeat.  

Norway's national team coach Støre Solbåken said: "I was satisfied with our performance in the first half, but unfortunately we made a mistake in defending a throw-in, which allowed the opponent to take the opportunity to equalize. We should have been leading 1-0 at halftime, but we could only go into the break at 1-1. For a period of time in the second half, we were indeed on the back foot."  

"Of course, we also had many commendable moments. The team handled the opponent's offensive well and didn't create many scoring opportunities for them. Unfortunately, one mistake cost us. In such a high-level game, a small oversight can change the outcome, so we must find ways to avoid similar problems from happening again."  

In the 36th minute, Christopher Ajer unleashed a brilliant long-range shot from the edge of the penalty area, the ball flying into the net to give Norway the lead. However, their lead didn't last long, as João Cancelo quickly equalized for Portugal. With 10 minutes remaining, Gonzalo Ramos scored, securing a dramatic comeback victory for Portugal.  

Stoller Solbakken said: "This is the fourth game the team has played in a short period of time, and many players may have reached their physical limits. The 60 minutes we played against Denmark, and the 90 minutes we played against Portugal at Ullervail Stadium, were games in which we performed very well in creating chances and posing an attacking threat. So now we don't have time to dwell on the disappointment, we must move forward."  

"Of course, we still need to learn from the problem of not being able to hold onto the results. Overall, I am very satisfied with the players' performance, but judging from the final points, we could have done better. The Wales game was a bit of a pity, but the performances in the other three games were commendable, especially Portugal, who are among the three strongest national teams in Europe."  

"No matter what happens, I am proud of these young men's performance. We still have the initiative, so we will continue to give it our all to achieve our goal."  

Image source: Internet/Official website of the Norwegian National Team